MINUTES AUG 2 IRON POUR SPECIAL SESSION

West End Arts http//:westendarts.blogspot.com
Special Session: Iron Pour
August 2, 2010, Padgett’s
NEXT MEETING: MONDAY, SEPT. 6, 7 PM, STUART LOUGHRIDGE, 265 West 7th St., 3rd floor (no elevator), black door.


Attendees: Nance Derby-Davidson, John Davidson, Paulette Meyers-Rich, David Meyers-Rich, Stuart Loughridge, Mary Esch, Kim Berry, Mary Ellen Murphy, Rachel Gorski, Jason Gorski, Marty Hicks

Called to order by Nance at 7:15 PM

Preliminary general discussion:

Prior to 7:15, Deborah handed out copies of the new and current issue of the colorful and informative COMMUNITY REPORTER for the dual purpose of tooting her own horn “DEAR DEB” column and the full color pages containing the ARTIST PROFILES. Cover to cover this is a community newspaper to be proud of.


Paulette shared a number of announcements of artists’ opportunities including Jerome
Foundation Book Arts Mentorships for emerging artists; http://www.mnbookarts.org MCBA is currently taking applications for its Artist co-operative; current and upcoming PRINT exhibit at MCBA (further information will be forthcoming on WEA website with appropriate links).

Nance provided an update on ART IN THE PARK, indicating the deadline has been extended and that she updated the WEA website to reflect that. There was some discussion of the complexity of the grant application process. Marty Hicks had some information based on his work with John Yust who has created blueprints & designs related to this opportunity.

David Rich raised the existing opportunity for involvement in a repeat of the LIBERAL ARTS exhibit hosted by Dave Thune’s gallery 4 years ago. He wasn’t clear on the specifics of this year’s benefit (scheduled late Sept? ) but seemed to think Bob Spaulding would have further information.

Nance announced our new WEA meeting schedule: Every other month (with this Aug. meeting being an additional necessity because the Iron Pour is coming up so soon… September, this year instead of October). Both Nance and Deborah are seeking to hand over their responsibilities to other parties willing to serve as Coordinator/co-Coordinator. Deborah will soon announce her “drop-dead” date and will enthusiastically continue to participate as a participant (yeah, it’s redundant… Everybody’s a critic…) rather than a Coco or MOI.

Upcoming Meeting Schedule:
Monday, September, 6, 2010, 7 PM Stuart Loughridge,
November 2010 David and Paulette Meyers-Rich
January 2011 Jason Gorski
March, Thurs., 3/3/ 2011, 7 PM Padgetts
May 2011 Marty Hicks
July 2011 Someone suggested Matt Brown (we’ll have to confirm his interest)

IRON POUR, dates: September 10 & 11, 2010

Task list: (first 4 items of many….)

1. Write (update) grant application D Padgett (done)
2. Need 30 tiles – 12-15 3D things
3. Dave Thune will need prodding Jason Gorski
4. A garden hose is needed

Nance has an extensive task list that she handed over to Marty Hicks (point person) to manage with any volunteers. Jason Gorski will work with Marty and will update the fabulous poster he created for the last two Iron Pour(s).

Deborah Padgett offered to retrieve last year’s press release, get it to Marty for updates and then send it on to various publications.

Notes were not taken on further discussions between those who will carry out involvement in the Iron Pour from now to completion.

Oh, and this is a cool thing, Mary Ellen Murphy brought her home brewed Pickallily Pickle Relish with Red Pepper and passed out numbers. Then she picked a winning number from a hat and the winner of the prize relish was Nance!

Some individuals had to skedaddle and others stayed to visit, discuss art and other life issues.

Since our meeting the Iron Pour proposal has been updated, submitted to Betty, signed and sent on to the City. We should be hearing soon…

Marty talked with the Iron Heads and they are available to do the pre-Iron Pour Workshop on Saturday, September 4, from noon to 4 PM.

Marty had a conversation with Betty Moran at the Federation – “Since the Federation is the Fiscal Agent for WEA, Betty will be collecting $$ from participants at the Iron Pour. As we collect names, they need to be forwarded to Betty -- she'll be making the "master list". I suggest we up the price for scratch tiles to $15 for West End people and $45 for out of area folks. Cost of 3D molds will be determined on site but will probably range from $45 to $100.” Let’s start spreading the word to make this another successful Iron Pour. More later…


Respectfully submitted,

Deborah Padgett

Meeting Minutes: Saturday, Nov. 7, 2009

Thank you, Rachel for taking notes in my absence. As MOI I've taken the liberty of reviewing and editing the notes.

Deborah Padgett, Co-Coordinator and Minister of Information
WEA meeting, Saturday Nov. 7, 2009, Mississippi Market. 7pm.

Present: Lia, Matt, Nance, John, David, Paulette, Mary, Gail, Stewart, Steve, Rachel, Jason. Am I missing anyone? The stranger eating dinner next to the wall. (Was Joe Landsberger there?)

Background music: 80s light rock. Toto, Pat Benatar, Joe Jackson.

In the Minister of Information's absence, Rachel takes notes.

Discussion:
Mary was contacted by someone at Gloria Dei Church in Highland, offering us gallery space for a show. Stewart and David offered to help to an extent. Nance will post a call for interested volunteers.
Stewart doesn't have a car, and David confirmed the spelling of "Dei."

Nance has reserved space at the St. Paul Gallery for a showing of Iron Pour objets d'art in January. Jason, Paulette, and Matt offered help. Nance will kick things off with an e-mail to participants, giving them a heads-up about the show.

Joe Landsberger is helping spearhead a "West End Beautification Coalition" and suggested West End Arts send a liaison to their meetings, which can sometimes take place at 11am on weekday mornings, when most of us are earning our keep. Everyone veritably bursts with ideas for beautification that far surpass plastic likenesses of Charlie Brown and Lucy. (I thought those were fiberglass?) But is anyone interested in attending the meetings? Anyone? Nance is too busy with work right now. David's traveling a lot for family reasons. Maybe we should take turns! Okay, great--so who can go to the first meeting? Any takers? (MOI researching this and will get back to you... also, specifics about 1st meeting).I didn't hear who finally got tagged "it," because I was gabbing with Jason. He wants to create a life-size inflatable replica of the now defunct Excel coal power plant, that dances around like those huge stick men. "It would be terrifying!" he asserts, eyes gleaming.

December meeting! Who wants to host it? Mary, or someone, tries to rope Rachel and Jason into it, but Rachel is unyielding. Nance will reserve space (again!) at the St. Paul Gallery.

Mary would like to organize another show at Mississippi Market, ideally to run immediately after this one. As far as she knows, the walls are free. David likes the idea of a curated show, to some extent, to introduce the "possibility of focus." Lia expresses interest in curating a "Tasty" show at the Mississippi Market, art inspired by food (Jason's idea), but that would be at some uncertain point in the future. What about for the very next show, something we could slap together in a hurry and put up right after the current show comes down? Oh, well, when you put it that way ... hmmm ... maybe if we drop the theme/focus idea. (These artists, they're all over the place.) Show of hands, who has something they could contribute to the next non-thematic Mississippi Market show? (Hands rise.) Okay then! We've got a show! Mary, once again, offers to coordinate it. (Thank you, Mary.) "Maybe I could get some help," Mary demurely suggests. Nance and David take pity on her.

Meeting adjourned.

Minutes of September 3 WEA Meeting

Minutes
West End Arts
September 3. 2009. 7 PM
Matt Brown and Lia Rivamonte's home/studio, 391 Banfil (at Western)
Matt Brown's studio: Ahh, the beauty of artistic disarray!

Attendees: Nance Derby, Paulette & David Rich, Kim Berry, Janine Olson,
Deborah Padgett, Michael Padgett, Deb Fisher, Matt Brown, Mary Esch, Marty Hicks, John Davidson, Heather Haynes, Maryellen Murphy, Halle O’Falvey, Virginia McBride, Lia Rivamonte


Lovely social setting in yard and studio (I’m regretting I failed to take some shots of Matt’s work in the studio… shoot…well, anyway, the work is vivid oil on canvas…) (Hey! Lia sent me some...)



Good attendance and much desire to socialize. Nance and Mary began the transition to new Coordinator by sharing the leadership role in this gathering. Deborah Padgett, Co-coordinator, butted into the business frequently to play the resident “control freak” and demand specific commitments, dates, times… that sort of thing.

It was announced that the September WEST END ARTIST profiled in the Community Reporter is Michael Padgett. Copies of the paper were passed around and attendees urged to read it and further urged to put together profiles of their own work and send it to Nance Derby, via email at westendarts@fortroadfederation.org and to Jerry Rothstein, Editor

Community Reporter
265 Oneida, St. Paul 55102
651-587-8859
www.communityreporter.org

editor@communityreporter.org

Please refer to earlier emails from Mary Esch regarding specific requirements for publication in The Community Reporter. Deborah Padgett [MOI, --- Minister of Information] offered to provide minutes and event updates regarding WEA to the Community Reporter and will be happy to submit press releases to this and other publications..

The next order of business concerned the upcoming, October 10th Iron Pour coordinated by Marty Hicks in conjunction with David Thune. Marty will host a pre- iron pour workshop for WEA members on Thursday evening, 7 PM, September 17 at his studio, 2223 Stewart Ave, St. Paul, MN 55116, marty@hixwerx.com. Nance is making contact with provider of scratch tiles and she and Marty will negotiate costs for materials and participation on Friday when they meet with Dave Thune. Nance proposed getting Monroe Art School 8th graders involved in working with scratch tiles. She will follow up with the teacher there. Nance and Marty will also discuss the possibility of the work being displayed at Thune’s gallery. There was talk of potential permanent display on a garden gate next year. Paulette Meyers-Rich will contact John Yust to discuss possibility for display at Highbridge Park. It was reported that Dave Thune has committed to the Iron Pour every year he remains Council person. Marty and Nance will get back to people about cost for workshop and Iron Pour within the next couple of days. Iron Pour Schedule:
Friday, October 9th at the Brewery Grounds, those who have attended the workshop will make their molds.

Saturday, October 10th is more mold making from 10 AM – 3 PM. Working on scratch tiles can go on until 7 PM.

The actual pour is from 7 – 10 PM on Saturday, the 10th

On Sunday, the 11th there will be pulling of the sculptures and clean up, 11 AM – 3 PM.

The public is encouraged to come Friday through Sunday watch the spectacle of alchemy


Kim Berry, Mary E and/or Paulette will contact musicians to try to arrange for live music during the Iron Pour. For further information on the Iron Pour click the link on this page titled: CHECK THE CURRENT SCENE!

As an item of FYI, Mary E. pointed out to attendees that if they are having difficulty viewing the WEA blog http://westendarts.blogspot.com/ they need only (and I paraphrase only slightly here) “fondle the website with their friggin’ (whatchacallit?) mouse, or whatever, and just kind of poke around in there ‘till you find…” She provided attendees with specific information to access the site and make contributions and comments on the site. It was determined we would discuss navigating the site and perhaps have a demonstration of the ease with which this can be done at a future meeting.

Next order of business is the exhibition Mary Esch will curate at the new Mississippi Market. She will decide, based on work submitted (by email by September 5 to westendarts@fortroadfederation.org, which artists and which work will be represented. The exhibit will be installed on September 25. D.P. will submit a press release regarding the exhibit once all details are finalized. Mary very much wants the work to represent the theme “West End Reflections”. The work must be suitable for wall display. She urged us to realize that if our work is not selected for this exhibit there will be future opportunities. She is also following up on exhibition opportunities at The Shalom Home.

A question was raised about the opportunity for a 2nd Annual at the Pilney (Jason’s contact) and it seems the Pilney space has been rented. Nance with check this out with Jason, as there may be future opportunities there.

Nance talked a bit about the structure of WEA and said she and Paulette will have the guidelines completed by next months meeting. The guidelines will reflect the grassroots nature of the organization. We hold 501C status through the Fort Road Federation (they are our fiscal agent). The structure will encourage anyone to make a proposal and then pull together working groups to make the project, idea, event, happen, much as Marty Hicks has spearheaded the Iron Pour and Mary Esch, the exhibit at Mississippi Market. There was scattered discussion about the importance of some of our events generating funds… nothing conclusive here. Lia talked about the importance of Art as community development and there was discussion about partnering and creating an Arts Festival or Fair in the future. Expansion of the Iron Pour into an even greater community partnering event in the future was also discussed.

Someone suggested the blog contain a suggestion box area and a way interested parties might sign on to participate. Nance, Deb and Mary will talk about the blog when they meet on Saturday.

A reminder of the American Craft Council’s October conference in Minneapolis was mentioned. Though it wasn’t mentioned at last night’s meeting, Deborah Padgett and Mary Esch followed up on the Open Figure Drawing Co-op at ACVR Warehouse on Wed nights. Another drawing co-op is being started by Armando Guttierez on Monday afternoons beginning this month. Contact Deborah P. for information to contact Armando.

Next gathering is scheduled for Monday, October 5, 7 PM at Halle O’Falvey’s house, 416 Arbor St. St. Paul, MN.

Respectfully submitted, Deborah Padgett, MOI and Co-Coordinator

WEA Meeting Minutes - February 5, 2009

WEA Monthly Meeting
February 5, 2009
Mancini’s, 7 PM
*Copy of meeting agenda… (see below)
Meeting Minutes
Attendees: Mary Esch, Deborah Padgett, Michael Padgett, Joe Landsberger & Maryellen Murphy
7:15 P.M.: Called to order
Agenda Review. Agreed to wrap up by 8:30 P
Discussion of great success of SEE, BE SCENE AND BE HEARD. "Invigorating". "Hard Work." Learned a lot, especially about things we would do differently". M.E. emphasized an interest in having predominantly West End talent participate. M.M. said she felt inspired for next time
Artists have been paid. Jason and Hall/ Not yet. After expenses, left with about $300 balance. Hall cost is $800 -- waiting on in-coming $1000 grant to cover that expense Though we could pay that $300 (or so) to SOKOL, want to pay full $800 so will wait for grant monies. After SOKOL, there will remain $200 of grant money – remaining $’s can be disbursed to other volunteer staff (for example: Jason G. for web page, logo creation, poster, etc.)
Discussion of publicity led to concern about W. 7th/Fort Road Federation logo inclusion in all WEA materials including blog, website and email. This is important because WEA is a Committee (Task Force) of W. 7th/Fort Road Federation and not its own, freestanding entity. Agreement that logo can be taken from W. 7th/Fort Road Federation website and included in consistent manner in aforementioned publications.
NEIGHBORHOOD VIDEO PROJECT (NVP)
Established consensus that we do not have any one or more individuals willing to work on the project. All agreed it is an excellent project but no one has come forward to say, "yes, I will do this". Mary Esch will contact Mary Pumphrey and convey our regrets and appreciation for consideration.
NEW BUSINESS
Discussion about prior proposal to create a steering committee (Model after MAEP at MIA) Those in attendance asked when a report on status of guideline creation might be available. Joe said there had been discussion at prior meetings that projects have to come to WEA as detailed, review-able proposals No such proposal review process has been established. Seems some confusion about whether or not a steering committee/guidelines group already exists and, if so, who are it’s members and what is the status.
Possible creation of a position of treasurer was tabled for future consideration when more WEA participants are in attendance.
General discussion about the three major projects 1.) Visual arts exhibit 2). Iron Pour 3) Performance – Agreement that all were more or less successful but quite ambitious. Agreement also, that in future, would like to see participants from West End rather than reaching so far and wide and providing venues for artists from all over. Some thought WEA got ahead of itself and might want to step back and look at initial concept: That of a supportive network, a sharing of resources and ideas.
J.L. suggested something like an open studio, get-together in the Spring that could allow WEA artists to simply get to know each other as a next project. Michael and Deborah Padgett indicated interest in throwing open their studio doors for such an event. Further discussion at March 2 meeting (7 PM, Day by Day CafÈ).
Other ideas: A Garden Gig and/or Life Drawing Cooperative (just ideas).
J.L. proposed (not so much proposed as put out feelers…) further visibility by co-sponsoring next Lex/Ham play at SOKOL. Handed out blurb on current status of project. Joe will reach out to possible theatre artists in the West End to see if anyone would like to become a part of our Committee (WEA, that is) and perhaps give credibility to our signing on as co-sponsors. Joe will follow up with us at next meeting.

Announcements as indicated on included agenda. The Blogger user Pinky extended an invitation as indicated on agenda.
Next meeting of WEA will be held at 7 PM at the Day by Day CafÈ on Monday, Marcy 2, 2009. Announcement and agenda will be forwarded to membership via email.
* WEST END ARTS
e-mail: westendarts@fortroadfederation.org
Monthly General Meeting
February 5, 2008 7PM Mancini's
Old Business
I.)Summarize success at WEA Scene, be Seen, and be Heard-Thanks to all for hours of help
Wrap-up business-most bills have been paid but not CSPS
-PAYING CSPS:
Waiting for COPP grant to come thru so we can pay CSPS full 800. If the COPP grant does not go thru then we can only pay CSPS about $300 ( + some cash that performers didn't want) which is what currently remains in WEA account.
-Mary Esch wrote thankyou note and sent most performers $ 23 cash (some people did not need to be paid: Winbergs,
-COPP grant, last bit available for 2008 is coming thru but there was clerical error so there is a delay in needed signatures.
-FYI: No more COPP grant money for 2009
II.)Neighborhood Video Project (NVP) -review proposal and talk about comments
Vote on next step
New Business
I,)Proposal to create Steering Committee (Model after Minnesota Artist Exhibition Program at MIA?)
II.)Proposal to create Treasurer
III.)Joe Landsberger proposes another way to get more visibility: Co-Sponser next Lex/Ham play at CSPS
2009 Play announced: Karel Svenk’s “The Last Cyclist”The scene is the Terezin Concentration Camp in Czechoslovakia during World War II.
Announcments:
Betty Moran of West 7th/Fort Road Federation is temporarily laid off
Paullette Myers-Rich received Minnesota Book Arts Award-congrats!

The Blogger user Pinky has invited you to contribute to the blog: WEST END ARTS SAINT PAUL, MN.To contribute to this blog, visit: http://www.blogger.com/i.g?inviteID=2620689875370826318&blogID=3358375045603513071
You'll need to sign in with a Google Account to confirm the invitation and start posting to this blog. If you don't have a Google Account yet, we'll show you how to get one in minutes.

WEA Meeting Minutes - March 2, 2009

WEA Meeting Minutes
March 2, 2009
7 PM, DeGidios Restaurant
Attendees: Deborah Padgett, Michael Padgett, Kent Petterson, Roxi Swanson, Joe Landsberger, Lia Rivamonde, Virginia McBride, March Esch, Nance Derby, Maryellen Murphy
Mary Esch explained that COPP $1000 is coming, signed and ready. Will pay SOKOL $800 in approx. 2 weeks
The Padgett’s will host a WEA and friends Spring Studio Party on Saturday, May 9, from 7 – 11 PM. The party will be in lieu of the May meeting of WEA. Stay tuned for email invitation with specifics. For now, know that it will be potluck and bring a favorite beverage. The Padgett’s address is" 274 Goodrich Avenue, St. Paul, MN, 55102 (directly across W. 7th from the Day by Day CafÈ). Web address is : http://homepage.mac/deborahpadgett/index.old.html
Joe L. raised the possibility of creating a catchy name for the studio event giving an indication that this is the first of many such events to come. So far we haven’t moved beyond WEA Spring Studio Party… so, feel free to contact Joe jfl@studygs.net or either of the Padgett’s deborahpadgett@mac.com with a catchy name.
Discussion of the party was set aside for a few minutes to discuss Nance Derby’s concerns about getting together a "vetting" (project review) group so that all proposals for exhibits, events, etc. can be reviewed in a consistent manner along similar guidelines and then brought before the larger group. {We have more than 60 West End artists on our list of "members", any of whom are welcome to attend each monthly meeting} The concern is we have to re-invent the wheel at each meeting, provide background information for new attendees and the process becomes cumbersome, ineffective and "no fun". We Tabled discussion until later in the meeting. [The later decision was to announce via email that such a group is forming and request that interested parties will notify the coordinator prior to the April 2 meeting. Selection of the project review group will take place at the April 2 meeting and the role they will play will be presented (NANCE? PAULETTE?)
Kent Petterson, from West End Gardeners attended the meeting to present an opportunity for West End Arts to participate in the West End Garden Tour on June 6 this summer.
Mary Esch is coordinating placement of 5 (or more) Plein Air painters to set up their easels in many of the gardens. There will be an effort to recruit some West End musicians as troubadours to stroll the gardens. It was agreed we would try to spread the word about this opportunity.
Additionally, Kent requested artists’ help with creation of a logo for West End Gardeners with a bit more artistic flair than the existing logo. In exchange for the artists working with him on this WEA will be provided with a half-page ad space in the Garden show booklet (catalogue). Maryellen, Nance, Mary Esch and John Davidson will meet with Kent at his bookstore at 6 PM, Thursday, March 5 to get logo together. Mary Esch and Nance will create ad copy and supply it to Kent by (what date? I missed this. D.P.)
Mary Esch raised the idea of generating WEA participants for the August, 2009, National Night Out. It was decided we will discuss this in more detail at April meeting and perhaps it can be one of the first proposals the Project Review Committee can review.
Further involvement was proposed in the Cullen Park Project. It was decided that Mary Esch will contact Paulette Meyers-Rich (the initiator of the project) and let her know the first steps seem to be for her to make contact with Parks and Recreation, W. 7th/Fort Road Federation and Neighborhoods surrounding the park. Next, a detailed proposal should be put together and reviewed by the Project Review Committee.
Further new business: Roxi expressed an interest in WEA preparing for future St. Paul Art Crawls and perhaps sharing studio or exhibit space among artists who have existing space and those who do not. There was further discussion of highlighting the visibility of West End Artists through a flyer or advertisement and even, ultimately hosting an art crawl (of sorts) of our own. Discussions will continue. Nance told Roxi she had available space at her studio on W. 7th and this led to the decision to hold the Thursday, April 2, 7 PM meeting at Nance’s studio: 941 W. 7th, B40B. Bring something to drink or snack to share, maybe even a sketch book. These meetings are meant to be fun.
The request was made of attendees to start thinking who will be coordinator when Mary E’s tenure is up in the fall. The question was raised about a position description. Mary E. said she will provide one at the next meeting.
Web management was discussed. Mary E. has taken over where Jason and Rachel left off. Joe L. said the site could (and perhaps, should) become a sub-site of the Federation. He and Mary E. will discuss and see where we are by next meeting. Meeting wrapped about 9 PM (or so) with a few staying on into the wee hours of the night (10:30/11?) just for fun.
Respectfully submitted, Deborah Padgett

February Meeting Announcement & January Meeting Minutes

We will have our next WEA General Meeting Thursday, February 5th, 7PM at ???.
(Stay tuned for details.)

Be sure to check out the current scene at:
http://westendartsscene.blogspot.com/

I. SPNN Youth Video Project (Mary Humphrey)

Mary Pumphrey of SPNN spoke about a youth video project that will create "neighborhood video camps" in three St. Paul neighborhoods, including (potentially) the West End.

An artist mentor would be paid by SPNN to work with youth within the neighborhood to produce videos. Goal is to connect youth with community, artists, and history-present-and-future of the neighborhood.

They are currently applying for grants and looking for partner organizations within the neighborhood, who would write letters of interest and/or support for the project.

As partners, SPNN would look to us as a lead to a potential mentor, a resource to help screen videos within the neighborhood. Details of partnership to be hammered out once funding is secured sometime in the spring.

* Jason would like to see an excerpt of the grant proposal.

* Nance concerned that we'd be competing for grant money.

But ...
Those present voted in favor of signing a generic/conditional letter of support for the project.

II. New Art Coordinator Assistant (Mary Esch)

Rene can no longer fulfill this role.

Deborah Padgett has volunteered to be the new assistant. Happy anniversary, Deborah!

III. Scene, Be Seen, and Be Heard Showcase (Group)

Production crew volunteers:

• Director: Mary Esch
• Stage Management: Jason (Stage Mgr), Chloe (Emcee), Mike Orr, Joe (consulting on Hall setup)
• Cash for change (at show) & cash reimbursement (post-show): Jason, Betty, Nance
• Doors: John, Dan K, Mike Orr
• Bar: Paulette, Nance (and maybe Ed H.--Joe will ask him.)
• Kitchen: SOKOL volunteers being coordinated by Joe
• Setup/Decoration: Mary Ellen, Jason, Nance, Joe, Roxy, Krista Walsh
• Cleanup: Gayle, Roxy, Mary, Mike, David

Friday afternoon 1/16 schedule:
Mary and her new assistant Deborah will notify participants of schedule.

• 5pm: Volunteers show up at hall to help set up, go get stuff as needed, etc.
• 6:30pm: Performers show up for dress rehearsal

Posters were distributed and areas to poster were assigned.

Budget was sketched out with rough estimates of expenses and expected revenue at the door.

Reminder that the artists have been allotted a percentage of door proceeds.

Joe is flexible about the rental fee for CPSP Hall and we'll discuss it further after the event.

West End Arts Update: August 2008

Are you looking for info about West End Arts events? Check out our West End Arts Scene site!

Do you want to be part of the scene? Read on!

...


Lots of fun being had by West End Arts! Our inaugural show was a spectacular success, we've celebrated our accomplishments, and we're busy planning future events!

If you missed our last general meeting, check out minutes below and contact us to get involved in workgroups: westendarts(at)fortroadfederation(dot)org. (That's a new e-mail address!)

NEXT MEETING:
Monday, September 8, 2008, 7pm
The Pilney Building, 1032 West Seventh Street at Randolph
(Note the date. We typically meet the first week of the month, but since Sept. 1 is Labor Day, we're meeting on Sept. 8 instead.)
Discussions: Updates from Iron Pour & Live Performance & Pilney Space workgroups; Update from the WEA Guidelines group; Formation of a Grantwriting group; and more. Got a discussion topic? Please e-mail us: westendarts (at) gmail (dot) com.

Note tentative dates for future meetings.
FUTURE MEETINGS:
October, 2008
November, 2008
December, 2008
January, 2008
February, 2008

West End Arts General Meeting Minutes
Wednesday, August 6

Important: If you're interested in joining any of the workgroups described below, please e-mail westendarts(at)fortroadfederation(dot)org!
* Iron Pour (Coordinator: Kle)
* Live Performance Showcase (Coordinator: Jason)
* Event Planning and Production Guide (Coordinator: Nance)
* Pilney Gallery Events (Coordinator: Nance)
* Grant-writing (Coordinator: TBD)

Art at the Pilney Space (Nance)
* The Boones (owners of the Pilney) loved having art in their ground floor space, and are interested displaying art long-term.
* They are open to groups of 2 or 3 artists at a time showcasing their work on a month-to-month basis.
* Space would be shared with tenants who meet in the space occasionally.
* There would be limited public viewing time with volunteer gallery sitters and by appointment with artists.
* Artists would be in charge of their own promotion and marketing.
* Afternoon tea-party style opening would be okay
* Installation should be spare and well-thought-out, to well-represent the West End Arts group.
* Chris open to using the space for acoustic music or spoken word but emphasis would be visual arts.
Workgroup Coordinator: TBD
Workgroup Members: Nance, Tom, Stuart, Roxi, David, Kim, Janine (cc: Chris Boone)
Next Meeting: TBD

Future Events
I. Iron pour (Kle Thune)
* What's an iron pour? Donated iron is melted down in furnaces, and poured into sand or tile molds that are brought by artists/community members who sign up in advance. Template molds and safety instructions are distributed in advance. About 20 molds could be cast. The event is open to the public and is quite a spectacle.
* Kle is collaborating with an established group that has run iron pours in community settings already. They have all they need in terms of putting on the event: equipment, insurance, etc. They just need a space and people to show up and participate.
* The owner of the Schmidt Brewery site has agreed to provide space for the event.
* Tentative date: Weekend of Oct. 10, Friday through Sunday
* Kle is interested in partnering with WEA for the event, and would like our help mostly with advertising and promotion. We would make this event an arty happening for the West End.
Workgroup Coordinator: Kle
Workgroup Members: Tom, Jason, Marty
Next Meeting: TBD

II. Live performance showcase (Jason)
* Tentative date: January, 1 to 3 nights
* KFAI simulcast a possibility
* Strong interest and support for holding the event at SOKOL Hall
Workgroup Coordinator: Jason
Workgroup Members: Larry, Roxi, Joe, Rachel
Next Meeting: TBD

III. Upcoming events at SOKOL Hall (Joe)
Joe distributed flyers with info about future events at SOKOL.
For details, see http://www.sokolmn.org/upcoming.shtml.
Also:
Nov. 1: Mystery Theatre Dinner
Nov. 15: West End Harvest Dance

Recommendations from Scene-and-be-Seen Debriefing (Nance)
After the raging success of the Scene-and-be-Seen show, some members of the group suggest we document some processes and procedures for planning events. Such as:
* How to do mass mailings
* How to handle donations
* How to create an event plan
* How to organize a production crew
* ... and more.
This would be an attempt to record the things we learned from producing the visual arts show, and provide future planning and production crews some guidelines to follow.
Ideally, anyone should be able to come to WEA with an idea, and we'd provide them processes and procedures to follow, so that they can run with it.
The workgroup will meet offline to hammer out a working document, and they'll bring it back to the group and it will evolve over time.
Workgroup Coordinator: Nance
Workgroup Members: Jason, Rachel, Joe, Mary, Roxi (as time permits), Stuart, Kle, Rene, Paulette
Tentative meeting: Aug. 18, Mad Hatter's, 7pm

Arts Coordinator Role (Nance)
* We talked about having an "Arts Coordinator" who will be a point person for the group.
* This person would set meeting times and places.
* This person would be the first point of contact for people interested in getting involved, and she or he would be able to point that person in the right direction.
* This person would need to be kept in the loop in terms of everything going on.
* This person would not be a decision-maker or referee or tie-breaker.
* Mary Esch agreed to try out the position. Hooray Mary!

Grant-Writing (Joe)
Joe knows his grants. (He gave a long list of grants he's written and received.)
Nance suggests we form a grant-writing group to seek out grant-makers and put together applications.
Workgroup Coordinator: TBD in September
Workgroup Members: Kle, Stuart, Nance, Kim
Tentative meeting date: TBD in September

Reminder: Potluck on Sunday!

June 4, 2008 Meeting Minutes

June 4, 2008 Meeting Minutes
SOKOL Hall
Starring: Jason, Rachel G., Joe, Halle, John, Nance, Laurel, Mike Orr, Mary, David, Paulette (and later, Rachel R.)

I. Scene-and-be-Seen Show update
Call for entries was published in the Community Reporter along with an article by Halle.
Some flyers have been posted (Mad Hatter's, Rudies)
One submission rec'd so far.
Open items:

• Betty/Insurance (Nance)
• Budget/Dave Thune (Nance)
• Jason will contact Pilney re: setting up a meeting with hanging crew.

Show publicity: We should provide Kent/garden tour sites info about show to distribute. Halle will contact Villager about place ad. Bonfe ticker tape sign. Public radio spots.

Web site: We should post submissions/show pieces on our "scene" blog, including those entries that we didn't have space for (if necessary).

"People's Choice" award for show entries (suggested by Laurel): could have picture of piece, winner in Community Reporter

Any volunteers willing to post about 5 flyers each at businesses in the West End? Yes!

• Nance & John (downtown)
• Paulette (CVA, Day by Day, Miss. Market, YWCA, Nina's, Common Good Books, WA Frost)
• David
• Mary (Skinners, Leitner's, The Spot, Bennett's, churches)
• Halle
• Mike (West Side coffee shops)
• Rachel & Jason (Black Dog, Fresh Grounds, Tease, Supatra's)

Any volunteers willing to contact artists for submissions? Yes!
Many of those present committed to submitting a piece, and David and Paulette made a long list of people they'd reach out to.

Any volunteers willing to be gallery sitters during the show? Yes. Will confirm as we get closer to the show.

II. Future projects to consider
Performing arts showcase. Potential leadership/involvement from ...
Jason, Dave W's band, McNally School of Music, Rachel R., Heather's family, Gabriella Sweet, Lisa Kane (is she still in our 'hood?), Lia, Sarah Remke, Accordion Heaven, Jeanne Cotter (pianist, "Mythic Rain") (via Paulette)

Mississippi Market. David & Paulette have contact with board member Mary Bishop, who works at Leitners.

Shalom Home.

III. Next steering cmte. meeting: Wed. 6/11, Black Dog in

May 12, 2008 Steering Committee Minutes

Tonight's focus: Preparing for the Show!

I. Locale Update
The Pilney is a go. Tenant is fine with our plan to use the space for our show during business hours and on weekends.
We need to draft a proposal for The Pilney's owners. Details below.

II. Budget
Nance circulated the budget proposal that was submitted to Thune/City Council. The proposal was blessed by steering cmte. members and Betty at Fort Road Fed.
We hope to have the budget money in time to do publicity for the show, but if it doesn't come through in time for us, we will have to get creative. (Roaming sandwich boards, heavy e-mail/word of mouth, radio spots, press releases, Community Reporter, etc.)

III. WEA letterhead and business cards
Jason is working on these.
Letterhead will need to specify West End Arts as "A Committee of the Fort Road Federation."

IV. Show Setup: To Do List
Beg, borrow, steal:

• Pedastals for sculptures (from Thune, Nance, Jason)
• Lighting equipment (light fixtures, c-clamps, extension cords, etc.)
• Movable walls (from Thune, Nance)
  

Solicit volunteers to:

• Select pieces to show. (Mary, Virginia, Paulette)
  
• Gather donations of cups, napkins, beverages. (Halle) (Our show poster can include a thank you to businesses who donate.)
  
• Help hang show.
• Help with fundraising at the show (producing/selling t-shirts, soaps, caps, bumper stickers, magnets, key chains).
• Line up volunteer musicians for venue-appropriate music (probably acoustic, small-scale, not minding being background music).
  

IV. Proposal for Pilney Draft Text
Proposal for West End Arts Scene-and-be-Seen Show

To take place in the ground floor/open space of the Pilney building, organized and staffed by volunteers of West End Arts.

Pilney building owners agree to provide West End Arts volunteers access to the show space at the following dates and times.
Show dates: Saturday, July 12, 2008-Saturday, August 2, 2008
Opening reception: Saturday, July 12, 2008, 6-10pm
Open to the public: Thursdays through Sundays, 1-5pm

Art drop-off dates: Sunday, July 6, 3-6pm and Wednesday, July 9, 1-4pm

Show preparation dates: Saturday, July 5 through Saturday, July 12 between 9am and 5pm

Art pick-up dates: Wednesday, August 6, 1-4pm and Saturday, August 9, 3-6pm

West End Arts volunteers and Pilney building owners will arrange a date and time to meet at the show space sometime between May 24 and June 21, 2008, so that:

• West End Arts volunteers can assess the space (take measurements, determine the number and types of pieces we'll be able to display, determine equipment and lighting needs).
• We can clarify how West End Arts volunteers will access the space as we prepare and conduct the show.

West End Arts volunteers understand that the Pilney building's tenant requires use of the space on weekday evenings, and agree to clear the space of artworks each afternoon before leaving the site.
West End Arts and Pilney building owners will agree upon a safe, out-of-the way area within the space in which to stow pieces during off-hours, from the date we begin receiving show pieces (July 6) through the date artists will pick up their pieces (August 9) (for example, the back of the room, a closet, etc.). If the tenant and/or building owners prefer, we can leave select pieces displayed during the length of the show (for example, paintings on the permanent walls or sculptures in the windows).

We thank you for your support of West End Arts!

Contact:
Jason Gorski
651.206.4084
westendarts@gmail.com

V. Call for Artists
Our schedule:
Finalize details for call for artists: By May 24
Begin circulating/posting call for artists: Saturday, May 24 (poster format: 1/2-legal size and legal size)
Submissions due: Saturday, June 21
Selection period: Sunday, June 22-Sunday, June 29

Draft Text to include on blog:
West End Arts Scene-and-be-Seen
Call for Entries

West End Arts, a committee of the Fort Road Federation, is a newly-formed group of artists, neighbors, and friends organized to promote and foster arts in the West End, by encouraging and connecting artists, and extending arts into the community through exhibitions, live performances, and educational outreach.

Our kick-off event is West End Arts Scene-and-be-Seen, a showcase of visual arts created by artists living and working in the West End.
We welcome submissions of every visual art form, including but not limited to paintings, drawings, photography, mixed media, sculpture, ceramics, glass, and wood.
Your submission packet must include:
(1) Cover letter with:
Your name, e-mail and/or postal address, and phone number
A brief description of your connection to the West End (whether you are a resident, business owner, or employee in the neighborhood),
(2) Digital images (submitted online) or photos/photocopies (submitted by mail, 8.5 x 11 inches maximum) of up to three artworks, with actual dimensions specified. These items will not be returned to you.
(3) An artist's statement to be displayed alongside selected work(s) with:
Your name
Title of artwork(s) and (optionally) prices
Up to 100 words (about three short paragraphs) describing yourself and/or your artworks.
Note: If you're offering your artworks for sale, you must take full responsibility for negotiating with potential buyers, collecting payment, and delivering artworks. West End Arts does not represent individual artists or buyers.

Schedule
Entries due: Saturday, June 21
Selection period: Sunday, June 22-Sunday, June 29
Show dates: Saturday, July 12, 2008-Saturday, August 2, 2008
Opening reception: Saturday, July 12, 2008, 6-10pm
Open to the public: Thursdays through Sundays, 1-5pm

Due to space limitations, the selection committee may elect to display one or more submissions at a future event.
If your works are selected, you'll be required to:

• Deliver your artwork(s) to the Pilney Building, [address], Sunday, July 6, from 3-6pm or Wednesday, July 9, 1-4pm.
• Sign a waiver releasing West End Arts and the Fort Road Federation from liability should your artworks be lost, stolen, or damaged during preparations for the show, for the duration of the show, and until the artworks are returned to you.
• Pick up your artwork(s) at the Pilney Building Wednesday, August 6, 1-4pm and Saturday, August 9, 3-6pm

Submit entries by e-mail westendarts(at)gmail(dot)com or by U.S. Mail to the attention of:
West End Arts
Fort Road Federation
[address]

For details, see westendarts.blogspot.com or e-mail westendarts_at_gmail_dot_com.


VI. Other Appeals to Artists

• Send Maxine call for artists to publish in Community Reporter (Rachel)
• Ask Maxine how much it would cost to do an insert in the Community Reporter (for show) (Rachel)
• Rake Magazine (online) has a Call for Artists page. We can send a listing to cristina(at)rakemag(dot)com.

VII. Action Items
Nance/Jason/Anyone will bring templates of insurance/waiver for selected artists to sign.
Rachel will draft Pilney Proposal.
Rachel will draft call-for-artist
Jason will finish call-for-artists poster.
Nance will talk to Betty about Fort Road Federation insurance, and confirm it's okay for artists to send submissions to us in care of Fort Road Federation office.

April 7, 2008 Meeting Minutes

West End Arts Meeting Minutes
by Rachel

April 7, 2008
Fort Road Federation Office

Round-up of ideas for our inaugural event/show:

• Brewery as locale, if possible
• Non-juried, though if there are an extraordinary number of entries we can have a selection jury
• Satellite spaces for overflow entries
• Steering committee will meet to hammer out details such as:

~ call for artists within Ford Road Federation boundaries
~ combining show announcement & call for artists
~ venue
~ date
~ opening reception
~ where/how to distribute posters, postcards, & flyers
~ Community Reporter/Villager article/ad
~ KFAI promotion
~ public access/SPNN,
~ press release
~ West End Business Association partnership
~ "art crawl" with the art crawling down W. 7th via sandwich boards
~ rings of power for participating artists
~ ... and more

Steering committee members so far:

• Jason
• Lia
• Heather
• Marty
• Halle
• Nance
• Rachel
• John

Mission statement:
Marty suggests we solidify a mission statement, to define ourselves and give us some direction, aid in goal-setting, put at the top of a grant applications or budget, etc. So, what are we about?

• non-inclusiveness: for all ages, demographics, subcultures
• connecting artists with each other
  
• letting the greater area know we're here
• supporting arts and artists
• having shows
• being visible
• communicating
• sharing knowledge
• promoting and encouraging each other
  
• defining "art"
• defining "support"
  
• ... by any means necessary

Draft statement:
Neighbors and friends organized to promote and foster arts in the West End, by encouraging and connecting artists, and extending arts into the community through exhibitions, live performances, and educational outreach.

Inaugural Event/Show Budget ideas:
Heather offers to take the lead on drafting a budget for the St. Paul City Council. Rough ideas:
5000 postcards at $1,500
5000 flyers at $200
250 posters at $500
Postage $400
Designer $300

What's Next:
Steering Committee meeting
When: April 23, 2008
Where: Acme Scenic Arts (Nance & John's place), 941 West Seventh. (Next door to the Mad Hatter.)

West End Arts meeting
When: May 5, 2008
Where: Fort Road Federation Office

February 4, 2008 Meeting Minutes

West End Arts Meeting Minutes
Feb. 4, 2008
Chez David and Paulette

Ideas for our Inaugural Event
West End Arts ... a flushing out of artists in the community.
To this end, our first priority will be an open call, non-juried show.
Mary Esch presents sample calls for entries. She just curated a show at St. Kate's so has recent and direct experience with this kind of thing.


Approach:

• Mary suggests a simple approach for an inaugural event. David seconds.
• Rotate show. Put some stuff up at first, then other stuff.
• Mary, Ann, Becca promote idea of artist "mixer" in the space, whatever it is, separate from the show.
• Volunteers could watch over space/show during exhibit hours.
• TBD: Would call be open to non-West End artists?

Locale:

• Inquire at for rent/vacant spaces. Perhaps Dave Wick. can help us find these spaces.
• Pilney building is currently vacant.
• Remember that there would be a tax deduction for donations of space, food, beverages, etc. (Truly? Even if we're not offically a non-profit organization?)

Resources:

• Dave Thune said city may be able to provide ad budget.
• Marcus Young, current St. Paul Artist-in-Residence, is good liaison to city. He's currently looking for space in the West End. He loves it here.
• West End Business Association, which has recently reformed, may be interested in providing resources. Nance is joining.
• Becca suggests establishing West End Arts membership dues of $5-$10.

Other Business

• Nance would like to develop a structure for the West End Arts group: a leader, etc.
• Paulette suggests Kent Aldrich as potential graphic designer/logo developer.
• Community Reporter ran an article about the proposed artist live/work spaces at the Brewery. Paulette mentions that tax credit for such spaces is in jeopardy, and this may impact development.

Action Items

• Becca will get together with Dave Wick. to find out about potential space for West End Arts inaugural show.
• Nance will pursue ad budget possibilities (by talking to Dave Thune).
  

January 2, 2008 Meeting Minutes

From Joe.

Minutes of the fourth meeting, first wednesday; nineteenth hour, first month, fifth day, 2008 CE. CSPS Hall Theatre (Note change of day, time, location for next meeting.)

first agenda item
was a discussion of a project we could be working on. Discussion quickly evolved to a proposed gallery show this summer and what it would look like. Issues included location, whether or not we would jury entries, wording of the call, whether or not to charge, how the selection committee would be formed. A summary paragraph/framework is being developed by Sheila Dickinson, Mary Esch, and Paulette Myers Rich.

second agenda item
Rachel Robinson is transposing the visual arts asset survey of the West End into a graphic.

third agenda item
was a discussion of where and when to hold the next meeting. It was decided to hold it on (this) Monday, February 4 at 7 p.m. at Paulette and David Myers-Rich’ studio, 436 Smith, 1.5 blocks from the High Bridge.

Announcements/new business:
The West End Neighbors Garden Tour will be held Saturday, June 21, from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. There are about 20 entries to date. Pertinent agenda items queried whether our arts group would contribute creativity to a distinctive sign (format undetermined) to mark the residences on the day of the tour, whether there would be an art sale at the same time to coincide with the plant sale at the Federation parking lot on W 7th street, whether artists would like to showcase a piece in selected gardens, whether music to accompany garden visitors would be appropriate, Kent Petterson (Terrace Books on 503 St. Clair) of is the contact/organizer: terrace@winternet.com

Call for Artists: COMPAS writers and artists in the schools program (WAITS)
work in schools with students in Minnesota. 651 292 3249 This is COMPAS longest running program.

Vaclav Havel’s Memorandum produced by Lex-Ham Community Theater has been extended to two weekends at the CSPS Hall 383 Michigan: Feb 29, March 1-2; March 7-9. Fridays and Saturdays, 7 p.m. and Sundays 2 p.m. It is a great comedy! Full of governmental bureaucratic nonsense similar to what we are experiencing today. (Ooops—shouldn’t editorialize)

October 3, 2007 Meeting Minutes

West End Arts

First meeting, first wednesday; nineteenth hour, tenth month, third day, 2007 CE. CSPS Hall

Present: Elizabeth Ellis, Lia Rivamonte, Tonya Nicholie, John Davidson, Halle O'Falvey, Nance Derby, Andrew Hine, Rachel Gorski, Christine Francis, Edie Meissner, Marcus Young, Jason Gorski, Joe Spencer, Erik Hare, Kent Aldrich, Virginia McBride, Rachel Robinson, Steve Shimer, Darcy Rivers, Charles Marabella, Chloe Derby, Sheila Dickinson, Paulette Myers Rich, Joe Landsberger (minutes)

Absent, indicating interest: Dan Bruggeman, Mike Norman, Kent Patterson, Mary Wingerd, Jeff Martinka, Doreen McKenney, Dave Wickiser

The following is a non-sequential minuted discussion. Please enhance! Add! Correct! Contribute!

Joe chaired and began the meeting with introductions, reviewing that this initiative began with a resolution of support at the West 7th/Fort Road Federation annual convention in March 2007. Support includes staff time and resources as approved by its Board of Directors with the group operating under its aegis as a task force similar to that of the North High bridge Task Force. The Board of Directors of Sokol Minnesota also supports the initiative, hosting the first meeting.

Joe referenced a book by Richard Florida and his wiki is recommended. "Prof. Florida's theory asserts that metropolitan regions with high concentrations of high-tech workers, artists, musicians, gay men, and a group he describes as "high bohemians", correlate with a higher level of economic development. Florida posits the theory that the creative class fosters an open, dynamic, personal and professional environment. This environment, in turn, attracts more creative people, as well as businesses and capital. He suggests that attracting and retaining high-quality talent, versus a singular focus on infrastructure projects such as sports stadiums, iconic buildings, and shopping centers, would be a better primary use of a city's regeneration resources for long-term prosperity." The theory is not without its criticism also referenced in the wiki.

Agenda generally addressed several issues:

What role can the arts play in our community (development)?

What do West End artists need?

What educational values do the arts bring?

Cullen Park

Neighbors have already met to address issues of its development, and it presents one opportunity for "public art." Development could follow that of the North High Bridge Park model of fundraising and community organizing. Cullen Park is located Tuscarora and Bay along the railroad tracks, a block or off Fort Road. Contact: Andrew Hine

Brew-town sign at Jefferson and Fort Road

Brainstorming on possibilities for its retention and transformation

The nature of public art was brought up with a broader interpretation

to include not only static installations of sculpture, but also more dynamic interpretations to include relational/performance/multi-modal and -media pieces.

Survey of West End art, galleries, locations, etc. posted on the website

A potential project of the group. Jason Gorski has agreed to help maintain the website

Enthusiasm expressed for juried/curated installations of West End art in storefronts and businesses, and building mutually beneficial collaborations with institutions along the avenue

Directory of West End artists posted on the website.

Aside from text, these could also be posted images such as "business cards" or cartes de visite

Message board, listserv, wiki, group mail for discussions within the group

Toward this goal, a group email list has been established for sending messages to the above listed, present and absent, with two exceptions (no email address listed).

Caution is requested in sharing this email address in the interest of avoiding spam. If forwarding content, please delete the email address and mention that individuals can request being added through Joe as list administrator. [Post a comment to this blog entry if you're interested.]

Discussion on stakeholders of West End arts

Schools, businesses, non-profits, children, young and not-so-young artists of all persuasions.

Fall Art Sale: 501 Drake

Mike Norman, Jan Davies, Willem Gebben, Bridgette O'Malley & Amanda Degener, Betsy Bowen, Shane Upthegrove, Virginia McBride, Kevin Williams.

Next meeting:

First Wednesday, November 7. Location to be announced.